I am very good at being organized … about some things. I've chaired conferences, planned large parties and managed projects for clients. But I am also very resistant to the idea of getting my life organized or living with structure. The free spirit in me avoids having a day planner and to-do lists. I'm good […]

[1]I am very good at being organized … about some things.
I’ve chaired conferences, planned large parties and managed projects for clients. But I am also very resistant to the idea of getting my life organized or living with structure. The free spirit in me avoids having a day planner and to-do lists. I’m good at meeting deadlines, even if it means I have to stay up all night to do it.
But the last quarter of 2011, I felt a bit out of control or unfocused more often than I liked. My day was running me rather than me running my day. Perhaps it is the wisdom of age that has finally gotten me to address it.
Sometimes knowing yourself well means saying “This isn’t working for me” - and that is a good thing. Taking a step back and recognizing that you might be pushing something away that is actually going to help you get where you want to go.
I have big plans for 2012 - with lots of things I want to make happen personally and professionally. I’ve been sharing things I’m doing to give myself more direction in hopes it will help you and/or stimulate ideas you will share with the rest of us.
My 2012 goals (to keep me focused) and my 3 words (my template for decisions) are both on a 1 page sheet of paper that hangs in front of me on my desk. I’ve added a second sheet - my template for my month.
I have to report - it’s been wonderful. When someone calls and asks “When can you meet?”, instead of giving them control of my calendar, I now offer them times available on Wednesday or Thursday - my out in the field days. Maybe obvious to you but revolutionary to me with the former belief that if I was meeting clients or prospects, it was a good thing, no matter when.
I have exercise, office time, recurring monthly events, days for appointments, follow-up and planning all scheduled into my JAN Calendar Template [2]. It’s only been 3 weeks, but I’m working hard to create this new habit.
I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas on how you stay focused — or new habits you are working to develop. Please take a few minutes and share in the comments section below.
To Your Success!
[1] http://joinconsultantsgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/Jennifer-150×150.jpg
[2] http://joinconsultantsgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/JAN-Calendar-Template.doc